PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) — The New York Mets are hoping ailing Shaun Marcum is feeling well enough to start the sixth game of the season.
Marcum has not pitched in a spring training game since March 16. The newcomer complained of neck discomfort during a bullpen session Monday and is taking anti-inflammatory medication.
Marcum missed a start last week because of a shoulder impingement that required a cortisone injection. He has a 4.66 ERA this spring in 9 2-3 innings.
The Mets have not said they will put Marcum on the disabled list. They could backdate his injury nine days, making him eligible to pitch April 7 at home against Miami.
The Mets plan to use only four pitchers the first time through the rotation. They open at home on Monday against San Diego.
